Transit

Page Content

It’s not just your commute — almost everyone is experiencing longer delays and more congestion on roadways. According to a 2015 Texas Transportation Institute report, Twin Cities commuters waste on average about 47 hours a year stuck in congested traffic — that’s a full workweek in your vehicle. Total cost in wasted time and fuel amount to over $2.1 billion per year for the region.

Adding transit options helps relieve congestion. One full commuter bus can relieve up to 57 cars from the road, while a full light rail train can relieve up to 723 vehicles. In the Twin Cities region, more than 94 million trips were made by transit in 2013.

Meeting community needs

Only 61 percent of Minnesota residents are licensed drivers. Whether due to age, ability or finances, the inability to access jobs, services and activities limits the independence of residents and prospects for economic growth. Investment in transit services and facilities can expand travel options for those without alternatives.

It’s better for the environment

Transit improves air quality and reduces energy needs. In total, transit use in the U.S. saves about 4.2 billion gallons of fuel per year, or 11 million gallons per day. Across the nation, more than one-third of all buses in operation use hybrid or alternative fuel technologies.

On an individual level, one person switching a 20-mile round trip commute from private vehicle to transit can reduce their household carbon emissions by 4,800 pounds per year.